Have you ever thought of being a coach? There are many reasons why people want to become a triathlon coach: to give back something to the sport, enthusiasts who are interested in the technical aspects, those who have stopped competing but want to stay connected to the sport they love, and those who enjoy the social aspect. Whatever the reason, being a coach is a rewarding thing to do, and it gives one other life skills.
If you think you can motivate triathletes, then read on!
Training week in week out can be hard! Good coaches inspire triathletes. Good personal interaction skills are as just as important as technical skills. A friendly, empathic, non-judgemental, but slightly pushy approach is good.
The British Triathlon Foundation (BTF) has developed a coaching pathway. The BTF courses are not all about the technical aspects of triathlon. If you have no experience of coaching, then you start at the Foundation (previously Level 1) level. If you are a coach in another sport or hold the Foundation certificate or a teacher, then you can go straight to the Group (previously Level 2) certificate level. Both courses consist of seminars, online learning and face-to-face development day or days. You will need to hold a valid British Triathlon approved safeguarding certificate (renewed every three years) and a valid DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. When qualified you can apply for a Workforce Licence, which shows you have attained the minimum level of training standards and safety checks.
Interested in coaching the triathletes of the future? BTF have additional courses for youth coaching helping you to channel their enthusiasm!
Sometimes people are worried about coaching because they are unsure about writing sessions. Not only do the courses help you to plan and write sessions, as well as coach them, but we have a large store of sessions to either use as they are or for inspiration. In addition, there is a huge amount of information on-line from websites such as BTF, Swim Smooth, Tri247 and 220 Triathlon. After a while you will get to know members well, develop your own style and produce your own sessions.
Interested? For more information, please go to Coaching – British Triathlon or contact our Head Coach David Pinkney.